2 steps forward, 3 steps back

Tuesday, June 09, 2009

This last month has been a complete bust diet-wise. After the retreat weekend I can't seem to get back on track with my eating. I have had a lot of stress at home and at work - and I'm an emotional eater. Exercise is still a problem for me except when I can get in the pool at the apartment complex, but with the rain that hasn't happened as often as I'd hoped.

I had a relapse last week with my left knee and today the doctor told me I need to have an arthroscopy, which will require 2-4 weeks off work. I do not have that much vacation time for a whole year, let alone left for this year. This is something I am going to have to plan for financially and then get my boss to agree to let me be off for that length of time.

I start the day off good and sometimes make it through lunch but by mid-afternoon, even with a healthy snack packed, I'm having lots of cravings for the wrong types of food. I haven't had more than a sip of water a day for weeks.

I haven't been on the scales in weeks and frankly I'm afraid to step on them to see what damage I've done to myself.

I won't give up - one day at a time - one meal at a time - one hour at a time - I'll keep trying until I get it right.

Billi, Below is something I came across and I thought it may help you. We all go through this and we just have to keep moving forward. You have to be even more diligent when you are layed up with your knee. Just remember that this is the place that you can come to for support whenever you need it. I have only been here for a short time and there is not a day goes by that I don't get inspiration from someone! Just don't lose site of your goals!

Ok - I can't take credit for this but thought it was great information and needed to post it. Hopefully I'll give credit where due, so that I don't get sued for plagiarism...

Each month I receive a wellness email from my health insurance company (United Healthcare Care24). Sometimes I read them and discard them. Other times I pass them on to associates. This time I felt it was important enough to share with all of you... ********************************* Stages of Change

Researchers have discovered that most people follow a similar pattern when making transitions. Studies have shown that success is more likely if you move through the pattern one step at a time. So, what are the stages? And, how do they apply to you?

1. Pre-contemplation—At this point, you haven’t made a decision. Or, you may be hesitant because you were unsuccessful the last time you tried. To move forward, think about how changing your habits will benefit your life.

2. Contemplation—In this stage, it’s common to put off making a decision. You’re not quite ready to commit. But, you may consider it a possibility in six months. When you’re stuck here, evaluating the pros and cons of the change can help you take the next step.

3. Preparation—Change is on the horizon. You want your transition to begin in the near future. Right now you’re researching the best ways to help that happen. Tell your doctor or counselor about your plans. He or she can give you tips for going through with your decision.

4. Action—It’s time! You have a set goal! and are working toward for the next six months. Occasionally, you may suffer a setback. So, try to stay positive and listen to encouragement from friends and family (*especially SP friends!!! They understand better than most*).

5. Maintenance—You’ve kept with your program for at least six months—a huge milestone. Setbacks are less likely to occur, but continue to avoid temptation. Reward yourself for your success. And, look ahead to a healthier future.

Keep in mind that change doesn’t happen overnight. So, be patient with yourself and ease into each step. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or talk with a health professional when you need guidance.

Bumps in the Road

Rarely does change take place without hitting a few barriers. Perhaps temptation is too much, or you don’t have the confidence to move on. Maybe those around you —including family members—(*I'll say - especially family*) aren’t supportive of your decision. You may become discouraged and fall back one or more stages.

If this happens, try not to give up. Remember that living a healthier lifestyle may prevent conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Your doctor or counselor (*and SPFriends) can offer you additional reasons for staying the course—once and for all.

Based on the Transtheoretical Model of Change, developed by James Prochaska

that you are having difficulties! We ALL are where you are in one aspect or another...However, you need to stop the train before the wreck gets any worse. Yes, I know, easier said than done...We are like that train though, here to push and pull each other along the journey of being healthier. It isn't about being thinner (that is just a benefit), it's about being healthier and living longer. About feeling better about ourselves. I use to work in an attorney's office and I know the pressures that are there. They are enough to make Richard Simmons binge eat!!! YOU are better than that!!!!!!!!! Chew gum, suck on a lollipop (less calories than a doughnut), eat pretzels, etc. I gained soooo much weight when I worked there.....WOW!! Now, I am struggling with the removal of all of that "WASTE"! You can do it and we can help!! Get on that scale and take your lickings like a big girl (no pun intended there), then, get back to the Billi that I met the other night at the Mongolian Grill!! Hugs, Theresa I know you can!!

BilliLike you said yu have to take one day at a time. You have to be ready to change your life style. Remember this is not a diet it is a change in life style and I am learning. I feel so much better when I eat right and have so much more energy. So I am kicking you in the butt and telling you it is time

So sorry that you've been having a hard time of it. I can understand your frustration. Sometimes I think these doctors live in another world. In the real world you need to be able to go to work to put food on the table and a roof over your head. When I had my arthroscopic surgeries on my right knee (long before my replacement) I was only off for 5 days. When I went back to work I just propped my leg up on another chair with a pillow. For appearance sake in an attorney's office, you probably can't do that. You could rent a wheel chair and elevate the leg that way and still work. Just a thought....

I hope you aren't in too much pain. Knees are very tricky because they support your whole body.I'm praying for you.Hugs,Cyndi